iron deficiency anaemia

Question 1

define microcytic anaemia

Answer 1

Anaemia characterised by smaller than normal red blood cells.

Question 2

3 types of microcytic anaemia

Answer 2

1. iron deficiency
2. thalassemia
3. sideroblastic anaemia

Question 3

pathophysiology of iron deficiency anaemia

Answer 3

1. In iron deficiency, haemoglobin production is reduced
2. this leads to hypochromic,
   microcytic RBCs
3. resulting in a reduction in the oxygen-carrying capabilities of the
   red blood cells.

Question 4

where is iron normally absorbed

Answer 4

duodenum and jejunum

Question 5

what is the most common anaemia worldwide

Answer 5

iron deficiency

Question 6

is iron deficiency more common in males or females

Answer 6

females

Question 7

4 causes of iron deficiency

Answer 7

1. malnutrition
2. malabsorption
3. hookworms
4. menorrhagia

Question 8

what is the most common cause of iron defienecy worldwide

Answer 8

hookworms - they cause GI blood loss

Question 9

what is iron deficiency in elderly people a sign of

Answer 9

colon cancer - red flag

Question 10

2 causes of malabsorption

Answer 10

1. inflammation of the GI tract
2. due to taking medication that reduces stomach acid (PPI) – as acid is needed to keep iron in the soluble Fe2+ form.

Question 11

symptoms of iron deficiency anaemia

Answer 11

• Tiredness
• Lack of energy
• Palpitations
• Pale skin
• Cognitive impairment
• Cold intolerance

Question 12

signs of iron deficiency anaemia

Answer 12

*Koilonychia (spooned nails)
* Angular stomatitis
* Atrophic glossitis
* Brittle hair and nails
* Subconjunctival pallor

Question 13

how is iron transported around the body

Answer 13

bound to transferrin

Question 14

how is iron used in the body

Answer 14

either stored as ferritin or bound to haemoglobin

Question 15

3 investigations for iron defieincy anaemia

Answer 15

1. FBC + blood film
2. iron studies
3. urgent endoscopy (only if over 60)

Question 16

what would FBC +blood film of iron deficiency anaemia show

Answer 16

• Microcytic
• low MCV
• low RBC
• pencil cells,
• occasional target cells.

Question 17

what would iron studies of iron deficiency anaemia show

Answer 17

• Low Serum Fe
• Low Ferritin,
• Low Transferrin Saturation,
• High Total iron binding capacity
  (TIBC).

Question 18

5 treatment options for iron deficiency anaemia

Answer 18

1. oral iron supplements
2. IV iron
3. blood transfusion
4. dietary modifications
5. treat underlying cause

Question 19

what is the name of oral iron supplements and their side effects

Answer 19

Ferrous sulphate 200mg taken 3 times a day.

Can cause black stools, constipation,
diarrhoea and abdominal pain.

Question 20

when is iv iron preferred

Answer 20

cases of severe anaemia

Question 21

side effects of IV iron

Answer 21

Small risk of anaphylaxis and
is contraindicated during sepsis.